1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Malibu | Jetta |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1453 mm |